environment

Governor Whitmer Establishes Michigan Gun Violence Prevention Task Force

Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2024-4, creating the Michigan Gun Violence Prevention Task Force to tackle gun violence in the state. This initiative builds on last year’s legislative efforts, including background checks, safe storage laws, and extreme risk protection orders.

“Michiganders deserve to feel safe everywhere,” Whitmer stated. “The new task force aims to reduce gun violence rates and instances, enhancing the safety of our communities.”

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II emphasized the task force’s role in addressing gun violence through community intervention programs and legislation. The task force, housed within the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, will identify root causes, compile data, and recommend policies.

The group includes diverse stakeholders, such as state department directors, medical experts, law enforcement professionals, and tribal representatives. Their mission is to make Michigan safer for all residents.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Port Huron To Begin Major Street Resurfacing Project On June 24th

Beginning the week of June 24th, the City of Port Huron will embark on a significant street resurfacing project, impacting several streets. 

The construction will cover 4.3 miles, including Nelson, Carleton, Gordon, Francis, Wells, Miller, 14th, 15th, 16th, Taylor, Botsford, and Locust Streets. Enhancements include new asphalt pavement, select concrete curb and gutter replacements, and ADA-accessible sidewalk ramps. 

Funded by the city’s voter-approved street millage, the project will necessitate street closures to thru traffic. There will be signs and detours posted to guide local traffic. The expected completion date of the project is set for September 13th. Keep these projects in mind on your daily commute through the City of Port Huron.

For further details, contact the Department of Public Works at (810) 984-9730.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Blue Water Area Braces For Annual Mayfly Swarms

Residents in the Blue Water Area and surrounding communities will soon witness the annual swarms of mayflies, or “fish flies,” especially near and around bright lights. 

Emerging from the water as adults for about two days solely to mate, these harmless insects do not bite or sting. Mayflies spend most of their life as larvae in water, hatching after one to two years. 

Michigan is home to over 100 species of mayflies, which resemble dragonflies with long, thin abdomens that can be gray, yellow, or brown, and range from a quarter inch to just over an inch in length. Residents can expect to see swarms around gas stations, grocery stores, parking lots, and ATMs. With their short life spans they often litter areas with hundreds or thousands of their crunchy corpses that often leave a fishy odor when crushed or stepped on. 

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

St. Clair County Health Department Offers Free Hearing And Vision Screenings For Children

The St. Clair County Health Department is providing free hearing and vision screenings for children, highlighting the critical role these senses play in academic success. Early detection of hearing and vision problems is essential, as undiagnosed issues can significantly impact a child’s ability to learn and thrive in a school environment.

If a child does not pass a hearing or vision screening, the Health Department will send a referral letter advising parents to follow up with a pediatrician, an ENT specialist, an optometrist, ophthalmologist or RESA.

If parents are unavailable to bring their child to the scheduled appointment, they can appoint someone else to do so, provided the child’s name, address, phone number, and birthdate are given.

For more information, call the St. Clair County Health Department at (810) 987-5300 or set an appointment online.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

 

Ontario Government Invests $2.5 Million To Manage Old Oil And Gas Wells

The Ontario government is investing $2.5 million this year to help municipalities better manage the hazards posed by old and inactive oil and gas wells. This funding is part of a three-year, $7.5 million investment aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness and follows the government’s $23.6 million action plan to address legacy oil and gas well challenges.

This year, Lambton County is eligible for $105,000 to continue building on the efforts and funding allotted in 2023, which they will focus on emergency preparedness and risk reduction in rural areas.

“As we enter this next chapter of our action plan, I am pleased to see how municipalities are finding new and innovative ways to address risks posed by old oil and gas wells and enhance local emergency planning,” said Graydon Smith, Minister of Natural Resources.

Source: news.ontario.ca

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Lake Bonisteel Music Association Hosts Free Family Event

The Lake Bonisteel Music Association (LBMA) is welcoming the community out for a free family event featuring local bands, artisan goods, and food vendors. 

The LMBA Fest 2024 includes performances by The Eclectic, Chris Thornburg Apparatus, The Problem, Some Random Bastards, Yeddie Woods, Breakfast At 2PM, and The Barbara Jean Machine. Families can enjoy free kids’ crafts, games, and instrument giveaways.

Vendors at the event include Sew What, Arctic Joy, Elly’s Crystal Emporium, Cloud Candy, The Toadstool Treasury, Mason Made Crafts, Generic Name Boutique, Lounies Soap Co., and Route 21 Grill. The event is located at Pine Grove Park in Port Huron from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.

For the latest updates, follow Lake Bonisteel Music Association on Facebook at Lake Bonisteel Music. Interested vendors can apply here.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell